CBGB Founder, Hilly Kristal Dies at Age 75

NEW YORK, Aug. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- It is with deep sadness
and regret that we inform you of the death of Hilly Kristal, who died on
Tuesday, August 28, 2007 from complications from Lung Cancer. Kristal, 75,
founded the legendary rock club CBGB and ran the club for 33 years. A
singer and songwriter himself, Kristal opened the club to showcase "Country
Bluegrass and Blues"; instead the club became a breeding ground for Punk
rock. Among the many acts that called CBGB home were Blondie, the Talking
Heads, Television, Living Color, Patti Smith and the Ramones. The club
closed in October 2006, but CBGB continues, with a retail store in New York
City and worldwide merchandise sales; in addition, there currently are
plans to open new CBGB clubs in several locations.
Kristal is survived by his daughter, Lisa Kristal Burgman, son, Mark
Dana Kristal, son-in-law Ger Burgman, grandchildren Jenny and Adam Burgman,
CBGB, and the thousands of artists and musicians who played the club.
A private memorial service is planned. A public memorial will be held
at a later date. Contributions in Hilly's honor may be made in his name to
the American Cancer Society or to the Hilly Kristal Foundation for
Musicians and Artists (168 Second Avenue, PMB 207, New York, NY 10003).